The genus was lectotypified (Li, X. W. & J. Q. Li. 2007. Nordic J. Bot. 25: 294) after publication of the family treatment for the Flora of China.

Actinidia pentapetala R. G. Li & J. W. Li (Ann. Bot. Fenn. 43: 462. 2006) was regarded as a dubious species by X. W. Li and J. Q. Li (loc. cit.) because no fruits had been seen. The name was originally published by R. G. Li and J. W. Li (Guihaia 23: 194. 2003) but not validly so because no type was indicated (Vienna Code, Art. 37.6).